St. Rombouts Cathedral in Mechelen

The St. Rombouts Cathedral in Mechelen has a rich history. In 1452 workers started the building of the cathedral. In 1520 the tower and the church were finished. It was an example of the Brabant Gothic style.

Picture by Harry Fabel

Inside the cathedral the framing is more in a baroque style, that's because in the 16th century the interior of the building was demolished due to religious wars. A part of the interior now is coming for other churches in the neighborhood, the impressing pulpit is one of them.

Picture by Harry Fabel

The cathedral is full of precious art, going from to 4-meter high statue of St. Rombout, the patron of the Cathedral to the painting Christ on the cross by Antoon van Dijck. Also, the cenotaph of cardinal Mercier is worth a visit. The cathedral's organ has 6606 pipes.

Picture by Harry Fabel

By climbing the 538 steps you can reach the 97-meter high tower. On your way, you pass the old and the new carillon, together 98 bells. According to the original plans the tower should have been 167 meters high, that's why it looks like the tower is missing a spire. On the top of the tower and on a clear day you can see both Antwerp and Brussels.